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Omkeshwar

Omkeshwar Singh  | Answer  |Ask -

Head, Rank MF - Answered on Mar 17, 2020

Mutual Fund Expert... more
Vijai Question by Vijai on Mar 17, 2020Hindi
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I want to invest around Rs 100,000 in Mutual Funds on long term basis with high return. Please advise which would be the best funds among HDFC, SBI, Nippon, Birla or/and ICICI.

Ans: Please note, RankMF ratings ignore past performance and influence of brand or names, it mainly considers the quality of the portfolio and the margin of safety at with the NAV is currently available on real-time basis.

Top rated schemes of various categories at present are as under, you may select as per your requirement.

Equity - Large Cap Funds:

- LIC MF Large Cap Fund-Regular Plan-Growth

- Axis Bluechip Fund - Regular Plan - Growth

- Kotak Bluechip Fund - Growth

- Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund - Growth Plan

Equity - Mid Cap Funds:

- Motilal Oswal Midcap 30 Fund (MOF30)-Regular Plan-Growth Option

- DSP Midcap Fund - Regular Plan - Growth

Equity - Focused Funds:

- Axis Focused 25 Fund - Regular Plan - Growth Option

- Motilal Oswal Focused 25 Fund (MOF25)- Regular Plan Growth Option

Equity - Large & Mid Cap Fund

- BOI AXA Large & Mid Cap Equity Fund Regular Plan- Growth

- Canara Robeco Emerging Equities - Regular Plan - GROWTH

- Tata Large & Mid Cap Fund- Regular Plan - Growth

Equity - Multi Cap Funds:

- Motilal Oswal Multicap 35 Fund (MOF35)-Regular Plan-Growth Option

- JM Multicap Fund - Growth option

- UTI - Equity Fund-Growth Option

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 30, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 29, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi Sir, I am a NRI. Planning to invest in India. Can you please suggest me a mutual funds for long-term investment (20-25 Years )? Can Invest 3.5 Lac per Month.
Ans: Investing in India as an NRI can be a smart move. A 20-25 year horizon is ideal for wealth creation. Your plan to invest Rs. 3.5 lakh per month is a significant commitment. It shows your focus on long-term growth.

Let’s break down how to approach this investment.

Importance of Diversification
Diversification is key to managing risks. You should spread your investments across different asset classes. It ensures that your portfolio remains stable even during market fluctuations.

Equity Mutual Funds for Long-Term Growth
Equity mutual funds are suitable for long-term investments. They offer higher returns compared to other asset classes. Over 20-25 years, they can help you achieve substantial wealth growth.

However, equity markets are volatile in the short term. But with a long-term approach, this volatility tends to smooth out.

Large Cap Funds: These invest in well-established companies. They provide stable returns with relatively lower risk. They are suitable for a solid foundation in your portfolio.

Mid Cap Funds: Mid-cap companies have higher growth potential. They are riskier than large-cap funds but can offer better returns in the long term. Adding them to your portfolio can enhance growth.

Small Cap Funds: These funds invest in smaller companies. They are more volatile but can deliver high returns. A small portion of your investment can go into these funds for aggressive growth.

Flexi Cap Funds: Flexi cap funds invest across large, mid, and small-cap stocks. They offer diversification within the equity space. They allow fund managers to shift investments based on market conditions.

Adding International Exposure
You already have some exposure to Indian markets. But adding international funds can further diversify your portfolio.

International Equity Funds: These funds invest in global markets. They reduce the risk of being too dependent on one economy. They also provide exposure to different sectors that may not be present in India.
Debt Funds for Stability
While equity is crucial for growth, debt funds add stability to your portfolio. They provide steady returns with lower risk.

Corporate Bond Funds: These invest in high-quality corporate bonds. They offer better returns than traditional fixed deposits while maintaining low risk.

Dynamic Bond Funds: These funds can adjust their portfolio based on interest rate movements. They provide flexibility and can optimize returns in different interest rate scenarios.

Short Duration Funds: These are suitable for a portion of your investment that you may need to access within a few years. They offer better returns than savings accounts with low risk.

Importance of Consistency and Patience
Investing consistently over 20-25 years requires discipline. The power of compounding works best with time and regular investments.

Avoid reacting to short-term market movements. Stick to your investment plan. It’s normal for markets to fluctuate, but over the long term, they tend to rise.

Reviewing and Rebalancing Your Portfolio
It’s important to review your portfolio regularly. As time passes, your risk tolerance may change.

Rebalancing: Rebalancing involves adjusting your portfolio to maintain your desired asset allocation. For instance, if your equity investments have grown faster than your debt investments, you might need to sell some equity and buy more debt to maintain balance.

Review with a Certified Financial Planner: Regular reviews with a Certified Financial Planner can help you stay on track. They can provide insights and help you make informed decisions based on your goals.

Tax Implications for NRIs
As an NRI, you should be aware of the tax implications of your investments in India.

Tax on Mutual Funds: Long-term capital gains from equity mutual funds are taxed at 12.5% above Rs. 1.25 lakh. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%. Debt mutual funds are taxed at the slab rate.

Double Taxation: If you reside in a country that has a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) with India, you may be eligible for tax relief. Consult a tax expert to understand your specific situation.

Building a Robust Financial Plan
Your monthly investment of Rs. 3.5 lakh is significant. With this amount, you can build a substantial corpus over 20-25 years.

Setting Goals: Define clear financial goals. These could include retirement, children's education, or wealth creation. Knowing your goals will help you choose the right funds and asset allocation.

Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an emergency fund in place. This fund should cover at least 6-12 months of your living expenses. It will help you manage any unforeseen events without disrupting your investments.

Insurance: Make sure you have adequate life and health insurance. Insurance is essential to protect your family’s financial future.

Final Insights
Investing Rs. 3.5 lakh per month over 20-25 years in a well-diversified mutual fund portfolio is a powerful strategy. It can help you achieve substantial wealth creation.

Focus on diversification, regular investments, and staying disciplined. Review and rebalance your portfolio periodically to stay aligned with your goals.

Tax planning is crucial, especially as an NRI. Ensure you understand the tax implications and consult with a Certified Financial Planner for a comprehensive financial plan.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 20, 2025

Listen
Money
Hiii,sir pls suggest me which mutual fund is better for investment like SBI mutual fund ,HDFC, & among which one is better
Ans: To choose between SBI Mutual Fund and HDFC Mutual Fund, we need to compare them across different factors. Both fund houses are strong and well-established. But the right choice depends on various aspects.

Reputation and Track Record
SBI Mutual Fund is one of the oldest and most trusted fund houses in India. It has strong backing from State Bank of India (SBI).

HDFC Mutual Fund is also highly reputed. It has consistently performed well for many years.

Both fund houses have managed investor wealth successfully. Their long-term performance is strong.

Fund Management Team
SBI Mutual Fund has experienced fund managers with a research-driven approach.

HDFC Mutual Fund also has skilled fund managers with deep market insights.

The expertise of the fund manager plays a key role in the fund’s success.

Investment Strategy and Performance
SBI Mutual Fund follows a mix of value and growth investing. It focuses on long-term wealth creation.

HDFC Mutual Fund is known for its conservative yet aggressive approach. It balances risk and returns well.

Performance varies across different fund categories. It is better to check fund-wise performance before investing.

Actively Managed Funds vs. Index Funds
Actively managed funds try to beat the market by selecting high-quality stocks. Both SBI and HDFC Mutual Fund offer actively managed funds.

Index funds just copy the market. They do not try to outperform it.

Actively managed funds have higher return potential than index funds. SBI and HDFC actively managed funds have delivered better results than index funds.

Regular Funds vs. Direct Funds
Regular funds are managed through an MFD with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). These funds offer expert guidance.

Direct funds require investors to handle everything themselves. This can lead to mistakes and lower returns.

Both SBI and HDFC offer regular funds. Investing through an MFD with a CFP helps in better decision-making.

Expense Ratio and Charges
SBI and HDFC have competitive expense ratios. This depends on the type of fund.

Actively managed funds have slightly higher expense ratios than index funds. But they deliver better returns.

Lower expenses do not always mean better returns. A well-managed fund justifies its costs.

Risk and Volatility
SBI Mutual Fund has funds with moderate to high risk. Some funds take an aggressive approach.

HDFC Mutual Fund is known for stability. It has a balanced risk strategy.

The right choice depends on your risk tolerance.

Fund Category Comparison
In large-cap funds, both SBI and HDFC have strong performers. HDFC tends to be more stable.

In mid-cap and small-cap funds, SBI has given better returns in some cases. But HDFC also has strong contenders.

In debt funds, HDFC has a more conservative approach. SBI takes slightly more risk.

Flexibility in Investment
SBI and HDFC both offer SIP and lump sum investment options.

SIP is better for long-term wealth creation. Lump sum works well for those who can handle market fluctuations.

Both fund houses offer good flexibility in switching and withdrawals.

Taxation on Mutual Funds
Equity mutual funds have a 12.5% LTCG tax if gains exceed Rs 1.25 lakh in a year.

STCG tax is 20% on profits from funds sold within a year.

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per the investor’s tax slab.

SBI and HDFC both have tax-saving ELSS funds. These help in saving up to Rs 46,800 tax under Section 80C.

Which One to Choose?
Choose SBI Mutual Fund if you want slightly aggressive investment options.

Choose HDFC Mutual Fund if you prefer a balanced and stable approach.

Check fund-specific performance before investing. Past returns, fund manager experience, and risk level are important factors.

Final Insights
Both SBI Mutual Fund and HDFC Mutual Fund are strong choices.

SBI is more aggressive and growth-oriented. HDFC is more balanced and conservative.

Invest in actively managed funds through an MFD with a CFP for better guidance.

Avoid direct funds and index funds as they limit return potential.

Select a fund based on your financial goals, risk appetite, and investment horizon.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |237 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 04, 2025

Money
Sir. I can invest 7 lakhs per year. I wanted to select mutual funds with high return but medium risk. I will invest for 10 years and want to maximize return. My age is 35 years. Which funds should I select? Also how to find which fund manager has a good track record?
Ans: Dear Sir,

Thank you for sharing your investment goal. At 35 years old, with an investment capacity of ?7 lakh per year and a 10-year horizon, you can aim for medium-risk equity-oriented mutual funds to maximize returns while managing volatility.

1. Investment Objective & Risk Profile

Goal: Maximize long-term returns over 10 years

Risk tolerance: Medium → avoid very aggressive small-cap-heavy portfolios

Horizon: 10 years → sufficient for equity allocation, but need some stability

2. Suggested Fund Categories
Fund Type Rationale Allocation Suggestion
Large-Cap / Bluechip Stability and consistent returns 30–40%
Flexi-Cap / Multi-Cap Diversified growth across market caps 40–50%
Mid-Cap / Selected High Growth Moderate risk for higher return 10–20%

This allocation balances growth with moderate risk.

3. Mutual Fund Selection Criteria

Past Performance: Look at 3-year, 5-year, and 10-year CAGR relative to benchmark.

Consistency: Check how the fund has performed in bull and bear markets.

Fund Manager Track Record:

Check tenure of fund manager

Consistency in returns under their management

Look for funds where the manager has managed the fund for at least 3–5 years

Expense Ratio: Lower expense ratios reduce drag on returns.

Fund House Reputation: Prefer established AMCs with robust research and risk management.

4. Implementation Strategy

Invest lump sum or staggered SIPs of ?7 lakh/year across the selected funds according to suggested allocation.

Rebalance annually to maintain allocation targets.

Consider step-up SIPs if your income increases over time.

Maintain an emergency fund and adequate insurance alongside investments.

5. Next Steps / Discussion with QPFP

To finalize the exact fund selection:

Share your existing portfolio and investment horizon

Discuss your exact risk tolerance and liquidity needs

Review tax implications and medium-term goals

A QPFP professional can help select specific funds with good managerial track records and construct a portfolio aligned to your 10-year goal.

Summary:

Focus on large-cap, flexi-cap, and selective mid-cap funds.

Invest ?7 lakh/year across these funds, possibly via SIP for discipline and rupee-cost averaging.

Review and rebalance annually.

Verify fund manager track record, fund consistency, and expense ratios before investing.

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
www.alenova.in
https://www.instagram.com/alenova_wealth

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 23, 2025

Money
Hi Sir, I started a SIP of 3k from 3months investing in Nipon India Small Cap fund. I started investing via \xis bank mobile app. Please suggest me if thats the safe way to do through bank app. And I am willing to start another SIP of 3k per month. Planning to do it on groww app. Please suggest some good SIP plans and guide me on how good and safe to start via groww app.
Ans: I appreciate your early step into disciplined investing.
Starting SIPs shows long-term thinking.
Beginning small builds confidence and learning.
Your willingness to ask questions is healthy.

» Your Current SIP Action Review
– You started SIP of Rs 3,000 monthly.
– SIP duration is three months.
– Investment is through a bank mobile app.

This shows good initiative.
Early habits shape future wealth.

» Understanding Your Chosen Fund Category
– The fund belongs to small-sized companies category.
– Such funds are high risk.
– Such funds give high volatility.

Returns can be uneven yearly.
Patience is very important here.

» Suitability Of Small Company Funds
– Small companies grow faster sometimes.
– They also fall harder during corrections.
– Not suitable as first-only investment.

Exposure should be limited initially.
Balance is essential.

» Starting Early
– You started without waiting for perfection.
– Many delay investing unnecessarily.
– Action matters more than perfection.

This mindset helps long-term success.

» Risk Awareness Is Necessary
– Small company funds fluctuate sharply.
– Short-term losses are common.
– Emotional control is required.

Three months is too short to judge.
Time horizon should be long.

» Minimum Suggested Time Horizon
– Such funds need at least seven years.
– Shorter periods cause disappointment.
– SIP helps reduce timing risk.

Consistency matters more than returns initially.

» Bank App As Investment Platform
– Bank apps are generally safe.
– Transactions are regulated.
– Holdings are stored with registrars.

Platform safety is not the main risk.
Investment choice matters more.

» Limitations Of Bank Apps
– Limited guidance provided.
– Product pushing is common.
– Advice is not personalised.

Banks focus on convenience.
Planning depth is usually missing.

» Bank Staff Support Limitations
– Staff change frequently.
– Knowledge levels vary.
– Long-term accountability is absent.

This affects continuity of advice.

» Safety Of Investments Versus Platform
– Funds are held in your PAN.
– Platform failure does not erase investments.
– Units remain safe with fund house.

So platform safety fear is minimal.
Decision quality matters more.

» Planning Another SIP Thought
– You want another Rs 3,000 SIP.
– Total SIP becomes Rs 6,000 monthly.

This is positive growth behaviour.
But structure needs correction.

» Platform Comparison Perspective
– You plan using another app.
– Such apps promote self investing.
– Guidance quality is limited.

Ease should not replace planning.

» Direct Platform Reality Check
– Such apps promote direct plans.
– Expense difference looks attractive.
– But hidden costs exist.

Cost is not only expense ratio.
Mistakes cost more.

» Disadvantages Of Direct Plans
– No personalised advice.
– No behaviour guidance during falls.
– No portfolio review support.

Investors act emotionally without guidance.
This hurts returns badly.

» Decision Errors In Direct Investing
– Panic selling during market falls.
– Overconfidence during rallies.
– Frequent fund switching.

These mistakes destroy compounding.
They are very common.

» Lack Of Accountability In Apps
– Apps do not call you.
– Apps do not stop wrong actions.
– Responsibility lies fully on investor.

This is risky for beginners.

» Why Regular Plans Add Value
– Guidance helps discipline.
– Asset allocation stays balanced.
– Behavioural mistakes reduce.

Value is beyond commission.
Support matters during volatility.

» Role Of MFD With CFP Credential
– Certified Financial Planner gives structure.
– Advice aligns with goals.
– Long-term handholding exists.

This improves investment experience.
Returns become smoother.

» Cost Versus Value Perspective
– Direct plans save small percentage.
– Wrong decisions lose big percentages.

Net outcome matters more.
Peace of mind matters too.

» Your Current Portfolio Concentration Risk
– Only one equity category exposure exists.
– Risk is concentrated.
– Diversification is missing.

This increases volatility risk.
Balance is needed urgently.

» Importance Of Diversification
– Different funds behave differently.
– Market cycles impact unevenly.
– Balance reduces shock.

Diversification improves consistency.

» Ideal SIP Structure For Beginners
– One aggressive component.
– One stable growth component.
– One flexible allocation component.

This spreads risk evenly.
Comfort increases automatically.

» Why Avoid Multiple Apps
– Tracking becomes confusing.
– Discipline weakens.
– Reviews become difficult.

One guided platform is better.
Simplicity improves adherence.

» Data Security Perspective
– Apps are regulated.
– Data security standards exist.
– Risk is minimal.

But advice quality remains missing.

» Behaviour During Market Corrections
– Small company funds fall sharply.
– Beginners panic easily.
– SIP stoppage becomes tempting.

Guidance prevents wrong reactions.

» Emotional Support Value
– Markets test patience.
– Fear appears suddenly.
– Someone must guide.

Apps cannot replace humans here.

» Why Starting With Only Small Companies Is Risky
– Volatility is high.
– Returns are uneven.
– Confidence may break early.

Balanced start builds trust.

» Gradual Exposure Approach
– Start with core stability.
– Add aggression slowly.
– Increase risk with experience.

This improves journey comfort.

» SIP Amount Increase Strategy
– Rs 6,000 is fine initially.
– Increase annually with income growth.
– Discipline matters more than amount.

Time creates wealth here.

» Tax Awareness Brief
– Equity funds tax applies on selling.
– Long-term gains have limits.
– Short-term gains are taxed higher.

Holding longer improves efficiency.

» Avoid Frequent Changes
– Switching funds harms compounding.
– Costs increase silently.
– Discipline reduces regret.

Stick to strategy firmly.

» Monitoring Frequency
– Review once a year.
– Avoid monthly checking.
– Noise causes confusion.

Long-term vision matters.

» Avoid Social Media Influence
– Tips are often misleading.
– Past returns are highlighted.
– Risk is hidden.

Structured advice avoids traps.

» Role Of Goal Mapping
– Define why you invest.
– Time horizon matters.
– Risk choice depends on goals.

Without goals, investing feels stressful.

» Emergency Fund Reminder
– Keep emergency money separate.
– Do not mix with SIPs.
– Liquidity is essential.

This prevents SIP stoppage.

» Insurance And Protection Check
– Health cover should be adequate.
– Life cover matters if dependents exist.

Protection supports investment continuity.

» Long-Term Wealth Mindset
– Wealth grows slowly.
– Patience beats intelligence.
– Process beats prediction.

Consistency wins always.

» Common Beginner Mistakes To Avoid
– Chasing last year returns.
– Using too many apps.
– Ignoring allocation balance.

Awareness saves money.

» How A CFP Helps In SIP Planning
– Designs suitable allocation.
– Reviews yearly changes.
– Guides during volatility.

This partnership adds value.

» Confidence Building Perspective
– You already started investing.
– You are learning actively.
– Improvement is natural.

This journey will get smoother.

» Platform Safety Final View
– Bank app is safe.
– App based platforms are safe.
– Investment safety lies with fund house.

Decision quality matters more.

» Final Insights
– Starting SIP is a good step.
– Small company exposure is risky alone.
– Diversification is necessary now.
– Avoid self-direct platforms initially.
– Regular plans with CFP guidance add value.
– Consistency and discipline build wealth.

You are on the right path.
Correct structure will improve outcomes.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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